Known as the first japanese supercar, the Toyota 2000GT was in production between 1967 to 1970. The Toyota 2000GT was a grand tourer and more of a sports car. It was available as a single generation model and not more than 1,000 units were manufactured. Here is everything about the 1967 Toyota 2000GT.
Japanese Supercar
The pioneer of all japanese supercars has to be the Toyota 2000GT. It was manufactured with lightweight parts and new technologies. The Toyota 2000GT was one of the best performing vehicles of the 60s. It combined luxury features and high performance as well. The model also increased the sales for future Japanese supercars. Japanese models started to dominate in the automobile industry after the entry of the Toyota 2000GT. The craftsmanship was all around the vehicle.
Powerful Engines
When the Toyota 2000GT was launched, it made the entire world turn towards Japan. It heralded a new era of supercars. Being a high-performance vehicle, it was equipped with an Inline-6 engine. In the late 60s, muscle cars dominated the market with V8 engines, but Toyota was a Japanese model and preferred the Inline-6 engine. It was a front-engine RWD with Limited-slip differential and 5-speed manual gearbox. The acceleration was amazing and the overall top speed was 132mph.
Features & Technology
The mechanical features like the DOHC six-cylinder engine, disc brakes, manual transmission, and DOHC six-cylinder engine were the sole reason for the vehicle’s success. It was built around aluminum parts, rack-and-pinion steering, independent suspension, vacuum-assisted braking system and three mikuni-solex carburetors. The interior features included Electric Clock, Speedometer, Stopwatch, Tachometer, Radio, Oil pressure Gauge, and Bucket Seats. It was made with the help of Yamaha.
Unmatched Legacy
The cultural impact and legacy of the Toyota 2000GT was unprecedented. No one expected this model to be a successful one though it was a limited edition. It made sure Japanese supercars were there to stay amidst the muscle car hurricane. The Toyota 2000GT even challenged American and European cars. More supercars began to arrive in the market after the 70s. It also became an integral part of pop culture like Hollywood films, TV shows, and Documentaries. After appearing in the James Bond film, “You Only Live Twice”, the range of the vehicle reached its pinnacle. The popularity multiplied and gained cult status.
Made Way for Race Cars
Although the Toyota 2000GT didn’t feature directly in major motorsport events like NASCAR and Le Mans, it had a significant contribution in Japanese cars entering motorsports. The model was launched to promote their technology and expand their sales outside Japanese markets. Toyota 2000GT featured in small racing events that were held in Japan. It became a direct rival for Nissan.
Rare Vehicle
The Toyota 2000GT has now become an ultimate and iconic vehicle. Its history is massive and the records can’t be erased. 2000GT will always have a special place in the Japanese market. Only around 350 units were manufactured and sold between 1967 to 1970. Toyota wanted to showcase innovative engineering. It was sold at $7,000 USD on average and was an expensive model. The price of the Toyota 2000GT was higher than Jaguar and Nissan models.
Attractive Designs
The Toyota 2000GT had the looks to bewitch everyone. It had world-class styling and stunning designs. In the front, the pop-up headlights, grille and sculpted fenders were placed. The exterior featured a short rear deck, front hood, flowing curves, and fastback roofline. The rear part had dual exhaust, taillights and chrome bumper.
